The end of the semester is finally here. For some it was short and others it was long, but we can all look back and say that it is finally over.
This fall started off rough with the murder of senior, Ryan McCall, a beloved University of Tampa cross-country runner. To this day, the murderer has not been caught and UT students continue to walk the same path that he did only a few months ago. Another student was robbed later in the semester and violence continues to occur in the area.
Take this past weekend’s shooting in the apartment complex at Cypress Avenue and North Boulevard; someone shot through a window barely missing a person inside. Let’s hope next semester is a little more peaceful on this end of town.
Although UT partnered with Yellow Cab in an effort to provide safer transportation, some incidents have led to worse conditions.
Let’s not forget Erik Nicoletti, who was hit while crossing the street near Frankie’s on Kennedy Boulevard and North Boulevard. Andres Trujillo, the driver responsible, turned himself in and claims that no alcohol was involved. His rap sheet is long and includes at least one DUI and multiple battery charges. He’s been in and out of the legal system. The Minaret sees no reason why the law should treat him nicely and are awaiting to see justice served.
Even though violence has been high, there have been several positives. We started this semester with the largest incoming freshman class ever, which caused some growing pains. In a few days 408 UT students will graduate, and although they will enter a difficult and uncertain economy, they will be sure to look back on a fruitful career at UT.
Energy conservation efforts were increased over the winter break, including light censors, air-handler replacements, energy efficient lights installed in Thomas Garage and the addition of multiple recycling bins spread throughout campus just to name a few.
The commuter parking lot was finally opened (a little past the scheduled time) and the Sykes Center for Faith and Values is taking shape day by day with more construction ahead. As soon as we leave campus for break, the construction crews will flock to campus. UT will attempt to cure some of their growing pains by using one of the buildings on the new land tract but long term plans remain a mystery.
As we end another challenging semester, we can only look back to hope that the next will be better. The university needs to establish better communication with students, not with repetitive tips and warnings, but rather by getting to the bottom of the problem.
Tell students how it really is and what really needs to happen. Although we cannot prevent everything, educating students with real-world advice will benefit them most. Students also need to try to be more aware and make the right decisions.
Stay safe over break! Congratulations to those who are graduating. Make us proud. For those returning, get ready for another great semester and a great beginning to 2010.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!